Leah Holt's Pushed is a gripping exploration of the dark and twisted corridors of love, power, and survival. The novel plunges readers into a world where the lines between right and wrong blur, and where the heart's desires can lead one into the arms of a monster. At its core, Pushed is a story about the complexities of human emotions and the paradox of finding solace in the very thing that threatens to destroy you.

The narrative begins with a harrowing encounter that sets the stage for the protagonist's tumultuous journey. The protagonist, whose name is deliberately withheld to emphasize her role as an everywoman, witnesses a murder that she was never meant to see. This chance encounter with Machi, the enigmatic and dangerous man at the center of the crime, thrusts her into a world she never imagined. Holt skillfully uses this inciting incident to propel the story forward, creating a sense of urgency and tension that permeates the novel.

One of the most compelling aspects of Pushed is its exploration of the theme of captivity and freedom. The protagonist's desire for freedom is a driving force throughout the novel, yet Holt cleverly subverts this desire by illustrating that freedom is not always what it seems. The promise of freedom comes with a price, and the protagonist's journey is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices one must make to attain it. This theme is further complicated by the protagonist's growing attraction to Machi, the very person who holds her captive. Holt delves into the psychological intricacies of Stockholm syndrome, portraying the protagonist's internal conflict with nuance and sensitivity.

Machi, the novel's anti-hero, is a character shrouded in mystery and complexity. Holt crafts him as a multifaceted figure, one who embodies both danger and allure. His hard exterior and morally ambiguous actions make him a compelling character, and his interactions with the protagonist are charged with tension and chemistry. The author does an excellent job of peeling back the layers of Machi's character, revealing glimpses of vulnerability and humanity that make him more than just a one-dimensional villain. This complexity invites readers to question their own perceptions of morality and the nature of evil.

The relationship between the protagonist and Machi is the heart of the novel, and Holt handles it with deftness and care. Their dynamic is fraught with tension, passion, and a sense of inevitability. The author explores the idea that love can be found in the most unlikely of places, and that sometimes, the heart wants what it wants, regardless of logic or reason. This exploration of forbidden love is reminiscent of other dark romance novels, such as Captive in the Dark by C.J. Roberts and Twist Me by Anna Zaires. However, Holt distinguishes her work by infusing it with a unique blend of suspense and emotional depth.

Holt's writing style is both evocative and immersive, drawing readers into the dark and dangerous world she has created. Her prose is rich with vivid imagery and emotional resonance, capturing the intensity of the protagonist's experiences. The pacing of the novel is well-executed, with moments of tension and introspection balanced by scenes of action and suspense. Holt's ability to maintain this balance keeps readers engaged and invested in the story's outcome.

While Pushed excels in many areas, it is not without its flaws. Some readers may find the protagonist's initial acceptance of her circumstances to be somewhat implausible, and the novel's reliance on certain tropes common in the dark romance genre may feel predictable to seasoned readers. However, these minor shortcomings are overshadowed by the novel's strengths, particularly its character development and thematic depth.

In conclusion, Leah Holt's Pushed is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of love, power, and the human psyche. Its exploration of the blurred lines between captivity and freedom, as well as its portrayal of a forbidden romance, make it a standout in the dark romance genre. Holt's skillful character development and evocative writing ensure that readers will be both challenged and entertained. For those who enjoy stories that push the boundaries of conventional romance and explore the darker aspects of human nature, Pushed is a must-read.